Table of ContentsUnderstanding Arthur Miller's Life and PerspectiveParenting and the Development of Character FlawsConclusionReferencesArthur Miller's Play, “Death of a Salesman,” explores the notion of the American dream and serves as a poignant illustration of humanity's tendency to misinterpret what constitutes a fulfilling life. Miller uses the character of Willy as a tragic hero, demonstrating that one does not have to be perfect or live the quintessential American dream to embody this archetype. Instead, it depicts an ordinary man striving to make a living, which resonates deeply with audiences and draws parallels to the era in which the story is set. The play reveals the unfortunate fates of salesman Willy Loman and his son Biff, highlighting their character flaws and raising questions about the origins of these imperfections. Therefore, this essay will explore the theme of chasing false hopes in Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman." Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay Understanding the Life and Perspective of Arthur Miller To fully understand Arthur Miller's perspective in his plays, it is essential to consider his life and upbringing. Born in 1915 in New York, Miller had a relatively sheltered childhood from crime. However, later in 1957, while on the streets of New York, he engaged with sociologists and psychiatrists, aspiring to delve deeper into the topic of juvenile delinquency, as he revealed in an interview with Richard Evans. This research into juvenile delinquency may have played a central role in the creation of the character Biff, who exhibited delinquent tendencies as a child. Additionally, Miller's personal experience as the parent of a child with Down syndrome provides a connection to the character Willy. Miller's understanding of raising a child with special needs likely informed his depiction of parenting and offered insight into mental health. “Death of a Salesman” weaves a narrative that spans both the present and the past, focusing primarily on Willy Loman, a salesman on a downward spiral. Willy Loman, a salesman returning from a business trip, is greeted by an unexpected visit from his son. It is crucial to note that Willy is experiencing difficulty with his driving skills and has started talking to himself more frequently. Recently demoted from his job and struggling with immense stress, Willy's descent into hallucinations, primarily regarding his past, becomes increasingly evident. In his hallucinatory episodes, he dialogues with his deceased brother Ben, recounting Ben's remarkable fortune amassed in the diamond mining industry. Throughout the play, Biff appears distressed by his father's tragic trajectory, while Happy, his brother, recognizes his father's tendency to talk to himself but is unaware of the extent of Willy's mental deterioration. Ultimately, at the end of the play, the two sons leave their father alone in a restaurant. Parenting and the Development of Character Flaws Careful analysis suggests that it is Willy's flawed parenting that contributes significantly to Biff's character flaws, which manifest themselves in flashbacks throughout the play. Miller's inclusion of these flashbacks serves several purposes, including emphasizing the importance of family to Willy and character development. Additionally, flashbacks reflect Willy's deteriorating mental state and his growing disillusionment. A crucial flashback in the.